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What is a MIDIbox

The MIDIbox DIY-projects consist of hardware (MBHP) and software (MIOS + Application). Some projects have special designed modules, others only require a Core module. Every device needs at least one Core.

The application you work with ⇒ for example MB64e.hex, MBSID.hex, MBSeq.hex

Luckily - just as in the example - you don't need to open up your case and desolder the processor just to update “Word”: all Applications can be uploaded via MIDI by SysEx commands. You can even update new MIOS versions without having to burn a microcontroller! No PIC burning at all is required if you order your PIC Microcontrollers from SmashTV or Mike.

MBHP - The MIDIbox Hardware Platform

The MIDIbox Hardware Platform is the consequential continuation of Thorsten Klose's work on MIDI controllers in the last years. It brings down every design to one standardized environment with reusable and exchangeable modules.

Well, this method is nothing new, did you ever see the inner life of an old television, or a HIFI system, or a computer, or - of course - a modular synthesizer system? All are consisting of smaller or larger units, which interact over dedicated interfaces. This way of thinking, which simplifies the understanding of complex technical applications, is the principle of MBHP.

MIOS - The MIDIbox Operating System

MIOS is the operating system of the microchip. It can be uploaded by SysEx (via MIDI) thanks to a bootstrap loader, a special software that is already burned onto the chip if you order at SmashTV's or Mike's Shop.

MIOS provides the basic functionality for a bunch of different applications. There are dozens of precompiled, ready-to-use apps available, that you can upload to your MIDIbox and start making music! It is also quite easy to develop your own applications if you aren't afraid of coding in C.